in spoken German with interpretation into German spoken and sign language (DGS)

When people think of Ballroom, they think of dazzling outfits, eloquent MCs and expressive dance. Ballroom is the embodiment of Festivity as resistance, since it was created primarily by Black and Latinx queer and trans people as a space to live out their identities, offer each other recognition and practice community care. Since the 1980s at the latest, however, Ballroom culture has been carried into the mainstream by major pop stars — from Madonna to Beyoncé. This brings greater visibility, but appropriation and commercialization also lead to depoliticization and the erasure of social struggles.

We will discuss, with Black individuals who have significantly shaped and continue to shape Ballroom culture in Germany, how Festivity can take place within this tension: Jade Joana Mugisha, Sedami Gracia Elvis Theodor Ophelia Azilinon, and Seyram Deh!
The evening will be moderated by Georgina Philp.

The discussion series Widerständiges Feiern, which explores the political and resistant dimensions of festivity, was conceived specifically for the festival Black Berlin Black – Festivity by Fabienne Mahwane, a fully qualified lawyer, moderator, and speaker.